As individuals and organizations, we are often distracted by
the latest “bright, shining object.” The
object may be a new training program, software, or ministry opportunity. Whatever it is, the new object seems more
attractive than what we are presently doing, promising a quick and productive
result.
In his book Leaders Made Here, Mark Miller reminds us that
we should hold our strategies tightly and our tactics loosely. In World War
Two, Eisenhower’s strategy was to invade Europe and defeat the German
forces. Various troop and logistical
movements were the tactics to accomplish this and were constantly modified.
Strategies move us toward our long-term goals or vision
while tactics are steps along the way. Tactics change based on the realities on the
ground. New programs and ideas are
tactics, but do they move us toward our ultimate goals or divert us from what
we want to achieve? Perhaps they are
simply shortcuts to disaster. We have to be wise in our choice of tactics.
One way to determine whether our tactics are compatible with
our strategy is to consider both our vision and the values that undergird that
vision. One Japanese manufacturer
adopted the vision statement “to make the world a better place.” Inherent in this vision are values of respect
for people, concern for the environment, and sustainable processes. If the strategies and tactics used to
accomplish this vision do not reflect those values, then there is a discontinuity.
For Christians, the vision is to be the people of God on
mission in the world. The goal is clear
but the methodology to achieve it has evolved over the centuries. Some tactics have been effective for a while
and then been discarded due to changes in the culture and the needs of
people. Others have been dead ends. Often, things that have been useful in the
past return to provide effective ministry in another time and place.
“Quick fixes” are tempting but real success comes from tenacity,
patience, and commitment to our vision.
Do we need to change our tactics to achieve our strategies? Yes, sometimes we do, but only when they are
consistent with who we are and what we hope to become.
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